Dog-Friendly Activities in Wind River Country

May 30, 2025

Wyoming’s Wind River Country is the perfect destination for visitors with or without their pets. Both people and dogs can explore a pet-friendly atmosphere and wide open spaces with parks, trails and scenic drives. Dubois, Hudson, Lander, Riverton, Shoshoni and the Wind River Indian Reservation offer plenty of variety with many options for outdoor recreation and local dining. The Lake Louise Trail in Dubois is a perfect challenge for any dog. Lander’s Sinks Canyon State Park offers beautiful surroundings to explore, and Riverton’s River Walk is a laid back place to take a stroll. The Heritage Trail, which runs from Riverton to Shoshoni offers numerous walking opportunities.

Where to Find Dog-Friendly Fun in Fremont County, WY

While many dog-friendly options are in Dubois, Lander and Riverton, there are also plenty of outdoor adventures to be had in the smaller towns and surrounding regions.

Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails Near Lander, Dubois & Riverton

• Silas Lake Trail (Lander) – For experienced and active owners and their dogs, Silas Lake Trail offers beautiful views, and forested terrain provides plenty of shade. This trail goes right next to the gorgeous Silas Lake and is well worth hiking. To access the trail, follow Sinks Canyon Road until it turns into Louis Lake Road. Keep going until you reach the trailhead at Fiddlers Lake Campground.
  
• Lake Louise Trail (Dubois) – Lake Louise Trail is a great choice for dogs who enjoy a longer trek. It offers incredible views and features an impressive waterfall, a beautiful valley overlook, and, of course, the gorgeous Lake Louise. This trail is accessed by turning off Hwy. 26 onto Trail Lake Road. Follow it to the Trail Lake Trailhead.
  
• Riverton Riverwalk (Riverton) – Riverton’s River Walk is one of the best paved paths for dog walks in the area. Access this trail by S. 8th Street, behind the fairgrounds or at the end of S. 2nd Street.
  

The best time to tackle these dog-friendly trails depends on the season. In the summer, for cooler temperatures, early morning or late afternoon may be best. Be sure to check the local weather forecast beforehand, and be mindful of elevation shifts on the trail. Pack extra water, both for you and your dog, carry bear spray in wilderness areas (and know how to use it), and check each trail for additional rules and regulations.

Local Dog Parks in Fremont County

There are many wide open spaces in Wind River Country, but only a few that were developed specifically for some off-leash fun. Following are some dog park gems that stand out.

• Dacey’s Place Dog Park (Riverton) – Dacey’s Place Dog Park is a perfect spot to burn off some steam after being cooped up in the car. With its large fenced in space next to the Wind River, benches to enjoy the view and training games, there’s plenty to do with your canine companion. This park is easily accessed via the Riverton River Walk.
  
• South Park (Lander) – Lander Dog Park is another great, off-leash park. With a separate area for timid or less active dogs, it is an excellent option for furry social interaction. There are benches for owners to socialize on, a ball-throwing area to tear loose in and water access. This park is located off Baldwin Creek Road and tucked behind Lander Valley High School’s football field.
  
• Dubois Town Park (Dubois) – If you’re in the Dubois area, Gizmo’s Dog Park is a great option. The park is part grass, part gravel for varied types of play, with a bench in each area. There is running water available for dog use and a sheltered picnic table for taking in the fresh air. This park can be found by turning off 1st Street and then turning onto Gilliland Avenue.

Regardless of the season, these parks are open from sunrise to sunset.

Pet-Friendly Scenic Drives Across Fremont County

If hiking isn’t your style, Wind River Country offers some excellent pet-friendly scenic drives. They feature multiple places to pull off and stretch and have access to short trails and picnic areas to get some fresh air.

• Wind River Canyon: Shoshoni to Thermopolis (Shoshoni) -Wind River Canyon Scenic Byway is one of the most visually stunning drives in Wind River Country with its towering canyon walls, tunnels and incredible river views. This drive begins in the charming small town of Shoshoni, the perfect place to resupply before heading off to adventure. Along the way there are plenty of spots to stop, with some being a great place for off-leash fun.
• Loop Road Scenic Byway (Lander) – The best high-elevation and scenic route in the Lander area with direct access to gorgeous lakes and overlooks is the Loop Road Scenic Drive. This drive is a great avenue for short hikes and picnics.
• Togwotee Pass (Dubois) – Togwotee Pass features beautiful mountain views and connects Dubois to the greater Yellowstone region. The multiple pull-offs offer many places to stop.
• South Pass Historic Byway (near South Pass City & Jeffrey City) – South Pass offers incredible views of the Oregon Trail corridor and connects South Pass City State Historic Site, Atlantic City and Miner’s Delight. These are great places to stop for an hour or for a day.
  
  Bring plenty of food and water for the great picnic spots, for both you and any passengers.
  

Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Wind River Country

Adventuring in wide open Wind River Country can work up a ravenous appetite. Luckily, there are several dog-friendly restaurants in the area that provide a casual and welcoming atmosphere during the warmer months. Many restaurants have an outdoor patio section, which is perfect for enjoying a meal with your dog.

After a long day of adventure, grab a bite at one of these dog-friendly restaurants in Wind River:

• The Middle Fork (Lander) – The Middle Fork in Lander is a popular local spot for an amazing breakfast, brunch or lunch. Their shaded, dog-friendly patio next to a lovely stream is a great spot to grab some grub and take a break.
• Cowboy Cafe (Dubois)  – For a good place to eat with your dog in Dubois, The Cowboy Cafe is a terrific choice. Enjoy delicious home-style cooking while taking in downtown Dubois from their open air patio.
• The Depot (Riverton) – The Depot is an ideal place for lounging on the patio with your dog. Located within an old train station depot, this Mexican restaurant has wonderful rustic charm both inside and out and features a wide range of beverage choices and amazing food.

Dog-Friendly Lodging & Camping in Fremont County

Looking for pet-friendly Wyoming hotels? These accommodations welcome dogs with open arms:

• Inn at Lander (Lander) – Perfectly positioned in the heart of town, the Inn at Lander offers comfortable, dog-friendly rooms that make a great base for exploring Sinks Canyon State Park or strolling to nearby restaurants. This pet-friendly hotel in Lander features convenient grassy areas for dog walks, making it an ideal choice for travelers searching for dog-friendly hotels in Lander or pet-friendly lodging near Sinks Canyon.
• Comfort Inn & Suites (Riverton) – This well-rated chain hotel welcomes dogs and offers a smooth check-in experience for pet parents. Located close to walking paths and parks, the Comfort Inn & Suites makes it easy to explore local trails or head out to other dog-friendly spots in Riverton. If you’re looking for pet-friendly Riverton accommodations or hotels near dog parks in Wyoming, this is a solid option for both convenience and comfort.
• Branding Iron Inn (Dubois) – Tucked into the foothills near Shoshone National Forest, the Branding Iron Inn provides rustic charm with direct outdoor access—perfect for early-morning dog walks or stargazing strolls with your pup. This pet-friendly stay in Dubois is close to scenic trails and walkable to town amenities, making it a cozy base for anyone searching for dog-friendly hotels in Dubois or dog friendly Wyoming lodging.
  

Dog-Friendly Camping Spots

Wind River Country offers many beautiful dog-friendly camping spots to enjoy. From popular local favorites to remote campgrounds, there are plenty of places to pick from.

Prefer to sleep under the stars? Here are a few dog-friendly camping spots:

• Sinks Canyon State Park Campground (Lander): Beautiful and mysterious, Sinks Canyon State Park Campground offers dog-friendly camping near Lander. While your pup must be on a leash, the campground’s close proximity to numerous hiking trails and outdoor opportunities makes it an ideal place to stay.
• Falls Campground (near Dubois) – Set beneath a canopy of pines with the Wind River flowing nearby, Falls Campground is a peaceful retreat ideal for camping with dogs in Fremont County. This forested site is known for its cool mountain air, scenic waterfall access, and plentiful hiking trails that are perfect for leashed exploration. Its pet-friendly policy makes it a top pick for dog-friendly camping near Dubois, especially for dogs who love wading in the creek or trekking beside their humans on shaded trails.
• Atlantic City Campground (South Pass area) – Tucked away in a quiet corner of Fremont County, Atlantic City Campground offers a more remote, off-the-grid experience. Surrounded by historic mining remnants and rolling high desert views, this campground features wide open spaces and miles of trail to enjoy peaceful, leashed walks with your pup. It’s a great choice for dog-friendly camping in South Pass and appeals to travelers looking for pet-friendly Fremont County escapes far from the crowds. If your dog prefers solitude and wide skies, this spot near Atlantic City, WY delivers.
  
  If you and your canine companion are looking for a more remote and quiet place to pitch a tent, Atlantic City Campground is the pet-friendly place for you. With historic Atlantic City, South Pass City and Miner’s Delight nearby, there’s plenty of fun to be had, and the open spaces allow for many on-leash walks. Always check pet policies when booking your campsite.

Plan Your Dog-Friendly Adventure in Wind River Country

Wind River Country is a beautiful place to explore with a canine companion. It offers plenty of space and variety for dogs, and humans, of all energy levels. Whether you choose an adventure filled hike, a relaxing drive on a scenic byway, a peaceful retreat at one of the many lodging facilities or enjoy a meal at a pet-friendly restaurant, Wind River Country is the place to be. We look forward to welcoming you and your pets to the area.